Australia Rejoices as Vegemite Returns to Shelves in Toronto, Ending ‘Vegemite-Gate’
Canada and Australia have resolved a potential diplomatic issue concerning a yeast-based spread popular in Australia.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Mark Carney and his team for their assistance in resolving the “Vegemite-gate” situation, allowing a Toronto café to once again stock the product. Albanese described the outcome as a victory for the Australian industry.
Carney also shared Albanese’s message on the social media platform X, highlighting the importance of free trade and mutual respect for cultural traditions with reliable partners like Australia.
While the Canadian Food Inspection Agency initially requested the removal of Vegemite from the Found Coffee café, the agency clarified that it operates separately from the Prime Minister’s Office. However, a spokesperson for Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly confirmed that the Prime Minister’s Office played a role in reinstating Vegemite’s status in Canada.
According to a statement from the CFIA, an inspection revealed that the Vegemite being sold did not comply with regulations related to vitamin fortification and bilingual labeling in French and English.
The CFIA stated that a scientific evaluation determined the added vitamins posed a low risk if consumed in recommended serving sizes. The agency will collaborate with Health Canada, the manufacturer, and the importer to establish a long-term plan for Vegemite sales.
